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Trump weighs U.S. strikes on Iran as Israel-Iran conflict escalates

Wednesday 18 June 2025 - 10:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Zoom

The ongoing war between Israel and Iran, now in its sixth day, has claimed hundreds of lives in Iran and dozens in Israel. The conflict risks entering a dangerous new phase, with former U.S. President Donald Trump signaling a potential American military response.

Shifting tone: From diplomacy to threats

Initially, the U.S. distanced itself from Israel’s attack on Iran, which began last Friday. However, as Iran vowed retaliation against both Israel and the U.S., Trump’s rhetoric grew more confrontational. In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump warned Iran of unprecedented military consequences, stating, “If we are attacked in any way, shape, or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before.”

Although Trump initially expressed interest in brokering peace, his stance hardened after leaving the G7 summit early on Monday to address the crisis. Speaking to reporters, Trump dismissed negotiations with Iran, saying, “They should have done the deal. I told them, ‘Do the deal.’ I’m not in the mood to negotiate.”

On Tuesday, Trump demanded Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and boasted of U.S. military superiority, claiming “complete control of the skies over Iran.” He also issued a veiled threat against Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, asserting knowledge of his location but adding that Khamenei was “safe for now.”

U.S. military involvement under consideration

While the U.S. officially maintains that its forces are mobilizing in the Middle East for defensive purposes, reports suggest Trump is seriously considering direct military action. According to sources cited by the New York Times, Trump is weighing several options, including supporting Israeli combat jets with refueling missions, striking Iran’s underground nuclear facility at Fordow, or targeting Khamenei directly.

Earlier this year, Trump authorized U.S. Central Command to work with Israel on plans to neutralize Iran’s nuclear sites. Despite U.S. intelligence assessments that Iran has not resumed its nuclear weapons program, Trump dismissed these conclusions, claiming, “I think they were very close to having them.”

Iran has accused the U.S. of coordinating Israel’s initial attack and warned of retaliation. Iranian state media reported preparations for missile strikes on U.S. bases in the region if the U.S. intervenes further.

Risks of escalation

Analysts warn that American involvement could intensify the conflict and push Iran toward developing nuclear weapons. According to Rosemary Kelanic, director of the Middle East program at Defense Priorities, U.S. intervention would likely “multiply dramatically” Iran’s incentive to pursue nuclear capabilities.

Trump’s actions have sparked concerns among U.S. lawmakers about the lack of congressional approval for military action. Vice President J.D. Vance defended Trump’s authority, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that the decision ultimately rests with the president. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee likened Trump’s dilemma to Harry Truman’s decision to use atomic bombs in World War II, urging him to trust his instincts.

A volatile moment

The situation remains precarious as Iran continues to accuse the U.S. of complicity in Israel’s actions. Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, claim to have evidence of U.S. support for Israel’s strikes, further fueling tensions. Meanwhile, Iranian state television has warned citizens to delete WhatsApp, alleging that the platform shares data with Israel, a claim WhatsApp has denied.

As the conflict escalates, the prospect of U.S. intervention looms large, threatening to widen the war and destabilize the region further.